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Whether he’s performing on stage or voicing an animated zebra, Chris Rock is known for his wild and crazy, over-the-top style. But in his latest film, Top Five, the writer, director, and star turns it down a notch for a comedy that’s sure to take his long-time fans by surprise.
Top Five offers an insider’s perspective on celebrity and the business of being funny. Rock stars as Andre Allen, a once-successful comic who’s decided to take the next step in his career by starring in a drama about the Haitian Revolution. As he prepares for the film’s premiere, he’s also preparing for his splashy televised wedding to a spoiled reality star (Gabrielle Union). But when he reluctantly agrees to do an interview with New York Times reporter Chelsea Brown (Rosario Dawson), he finds himself answering some tough questions about his past while considering his future.
Top Five definitely isn’t the typical Chris Rock comedy. Instead, it follows the lead of the main character—a guy who’s trying to move beyond his comic roots, who’s turned his back on being funny. So although it does have some outrageous moments—most of which seem to have been thrown in solely to keep fans of Rock’s more extreme comedy from completely losing interest—it isn’t nearly as wacky or as spastic as you might be expecting. In fact, aside from a few wildly over-the-top flashbacks (which, unfortunately, you won’t be able to un-see), the story is actually pretty low-key—just a couple of people wandering the streets of New York, discussing everything from movies to celebrities to comedy to racism. It’s surprisingly chatty—more Woody Allen than Adam Sandler—not to mention honest and often heartfelt. And while it does have its share of comic moments, it’s a different kind of comedy: the comedy of everyday life instead of the raucous, exaggerated comedy of Hollywood.
Admittedly, the film’s tone takes some getting used to—but the Chris Rock of Top Five is a likable guy. Though his shouted rants may often be wildly funny, this film shows a different side of him: the smart, thoughtful side. His Andre is a guy who’s seen it all and done it all—and now he’s looking for something more. Of course, in looking to be taken seriously, Andre—and Rock along with him—sacrifices some of the laughs. And that means that Top Five isn’t a riotous comedy—which could be a let-down for loyal fans—but it also means that it feels smarter and more sincere than the same old outrageous comedy.
Top Five is an unexpected turn for Rock: a clever and insightful yet toned-down comedy. If you’re expecting non-stop belly laughs, you’ll be disappointed. But if you’re open to something different, you might just appreciate the comic’s more grown-up take on love and celebrity.
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